Navigating the hardest part of transition, by Brandon Glover
Former professional cricketer Brandon Glover, shares how the shift from elite sport to the corporate world tested his patience, identity and resilience in ways he had not anticipated. His journey ultimately led him to Amazon, but the path there was far from straightforward.
Brandon’s sporting career began early. Growing up in South Africa, sport was a central part of life and cricket quickly became his focus. By his early teens, it was clear this was more than just a passion. He progressed through provincial age group teams and represented South Africa Under 19s for two years before earning a sporting bursary to study and play cricket at Stellenbosch University.
While completing a degree in Financial Accounting, Brandon made his first class debut for Boland Province and represented South Africa Universities. In 2018, his career took an unexpected turn when the Dutch national coach became aware of his eligibility through his mother’s heritage. A short off season stint in the Netherlands soon became a permanent move, leading to his international debut for the Netherlands against Zimbabwe.
What followed was an impressive period of professional cricket. Brandon signed county contracts with Northamptonshire and later Durham, alongside franchise opportunities with The Oval Invincibles in The Hundred and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. However, like many sporting careers, momentum was eventually interrupted by injury.
A persistent shoulder issue impacted the final two years of Brandon’s career. After rushing back from an initial tear, he later required surgery that ruled out an entire season. A second, more intensive operation in March 2025 forced a difficult but necessary decision.
“After assessing my options and consulting medical advice, I believed it was time to step away for the longevity of my body and to set myself up for life after sport.”
The hardest part of transition
The space between sport and work.
Although Brandon had always envisaged a future in business, the reality of transition proved more difficult than expected. He had completed his degree, committed to studying CIMA, and identified accounting, finance or consultancy as potential routes. What he had not anticipated was how challenging it would be to secure an entry point without traditional corporate experience.
“The biggest challenge I faced was the time between retiring and beginning work.”
The months spent searching for a role brought financial uncertainty, but the greater challenge was mental. The loss of routine, structure and identity weighed heavily, alongside a growing sense of uncertainty.
“I have a drive to work and contribute. The days of job searching felt extremely long.”
Despite having qualifications and clarity on direction, Brandon struggled to find opportunities that recognised the value of his sporting background. Like many athletes, he underestimated how long the transition would take, expecting weeks rather than months.
Finding Amazon
The right opportunity at the right time.
The turning point came when Brandon was introduced to opportunities at Amazon through LAPS. The appeal was immediate. Not only is Amazon one of the largest companies in the world, but the Amazon Corporate Career Pathways programme is specifically designed to support former sports professionals.
The programme recognises that while candidates may not follow traditional corporate routes, they bring valuable qualities shaped by elite performance environments. Things you can’t learn in the classroom.
“For me, it was a no brainer to apply. It was an opportunity to start my career at an exciting company while accelerating my transition.”
Brandon now works as a Senior Brand Specialist within Amazon Retail, partnering with major electronics brands to drive growth and performance. His role spans strategy development, data analysis, vendor relationships, inventory management and cross functional collaboration. No two days are the same, and the role offers constant challenge and learning.
A new chapter beyond sport
The early weeks brought their own challenges. Adjusting to early mornings, long commutes and a steep learning curve was demanding, alongside navigating the complexity of Amazon’s systems and processes. At times, Brandon likened it to being back at university.
What stands out most, however, is the culture.
“The team I work with is fantastic. People are welcoming, supportive and Amazon sets very high standards, which I really enjoy.”
For Brandon, transition is no longer about what he has left behind, but what he is building.
“I’m looking forward to developing my career. It’s a new path for me and that’s exciting. I want to push myself and see what I can achieve.”
For many athletes, Brandon’s story may feel all too familiar. The loss of identity and purpose, alongside the search for the right opportunity beyond sport, is a common experience. However, Amazon are continuing to pave a genuine pathway for sports professionals from sport into corporate careers, providing access to roles that offer long term growth, opportunity and longevity.
We’re super excited to see Brandon’s post-sport career go from strength to strength at Amazon.
Photo credit Netherlands Cricket